 As we prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July, there's no better time to thank all of our service members, our civilians and contractors, all retirees and every family member for helping to keep our nation on the path envisioned by the patriots who risked their lives in 1776 by signing the Declaration of Independence.

Having to deal with temperatures near 100 degrees and such high humidity comes with being assigned to such a great base, and hopefully we all get a chance to enjoy the summertime activities available to us. Whether we're barbequing with friends and family, enjoying time on the water, swimming at the beach, or lighting fireworks to celebrate the Fourth of July and our freedom, please keep safety in mind.

As for celebrating, we had two great opportunities recently to recognize 62 technical sergeants selected for promotion to master sergeant and 92 staff sergeants selected for promotion to technical sergeant - way to go! I'm truly proud of these Airmen and look forward to their efforts to make the Air Force even better. Some will continue to contribute here at Charleston, while others will move on to challenging new assignments.

Especially during this time of year, it seems like we're always meeting new people and telling others goodbye as Airmen begin permanent changes of station during the summer months. We say goodbye (albeit reluctantly) to some of the finest squadron commanders in the Air Force as they move on to face new challenges.

Although she's not received PCS orders, Chief Master Sgt. Kathy Gray, superintendent of the 628th Medical Group, recently retired from the Air Force. As a command chief, I could not do my job without the help and support of the group superintendents, and Chief Gray has been a real blessing. Similarly, Senior Master Sgt. Michelle Lackey, superintendent of the 628th Air Base Wing staff, will also soon retire from active duty. I will miss working with such true professionals and learning from their efforts, as both have worked tirelessly to take care of Airmen and their families. Good luck Kathy and Michelle!

As we prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July, there's no better time to thank all of our service members, our civilians and contractors, all retirees and every family member for helping to keep our nation on the path envisioned by the patriots who risked their lives in 1776 by signing the Declaration of Independence.

As President Andrew Jackson once said, "Every good citizen makes his country's honor his own, and cherishes it not only as precious but as sacred. He is willing to risk his life in its defense and is conscious that he gains protection while he gives it."